SIDE STEP

Key Points

• Run directly towards the opponent.
• When about a metre away from the opponent, plant the forward foot firmly on the ground to one side, transferring the body weight to the foot as you do so.
• Show the ball to the same side.
• Then, push hard off the planted foot to spring to the other side pulling the ball back quickly at the same time.
• Plant the opposite foot and continue forward in the new direction.
• Note that the player should only use 4 steps while performing the technique.

Practice the Technique

Drill 1              Basic Side Step No Ball

• Mark out a channel 10m long using cones.
• Place 2 markers down the centre of the channel.
• The players line up one behind the other at one end of the channel.
• Each player in turn walks forward and side steps the central markers before continuing to the end of the channel and back to the end of the line.
• The players should concentrate on holding the hands to one side as if showing the ball and planting the forward foot firmly to the side of the markers.
•  Continue the drill for a set time.